Method of using a chlorogenic acid composition for supporting cognitive function

ABSTRACT

The invention provides compositions comprising chlorogenic acid and methods for their use and manufacture in the treatment of Alzheimer&#39;s disease. The compositions can be formulated from botanical sources of chlorogenic acid including sunflower seed extract.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of application Ser. No. 16/777,290filed Jan. 30, 2020, which is a continuation of application Ser. No.15/647,192 filed Jul. 11, 2017 which claims the benefit of ProvisionalApplication No. 62/361,491 filed Jul. 12, 2016. The entire contents ofthese applications are incorporated herein by reference for allpurposes.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to botanical formulations, including methods ofmaking and using botanical formulations in therapeutic applications.More particularly, the invention relates to botanical formulationscomprising chlorogenic acids and methods for their use and manufacturein the treatment and prevention of Alzheimer's disease.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disease and one of the mostcommon forms of dementia. Diminished cholinergic functioning, abiomarker of normal aging, is especially severe in cases involvingdementia. In Alzheimer's disease, amyloid plaque deposits in keycomponents of the cholinergic system cause a drastic decline inacetylcholine levels. To make matters worse, already reducedacetylcholine levels continue to be degraded by acetylcholinesterase,further impairing memory and eroding cognitive ability. Further, theproduction of reactive oxygen species plays a key role in Alzheimer'sdisease pathology leading to neuronal dysfunction and cell death.

Tau proteins, mostly found in neurons of the central nervous system,have an important role in stabilizing microtubules, critical structuresresponsible for various movements in cells. If Tau ishyperphosphorylated, it loses effectiveness in stabilizing microtubulesand starts to aggregate. Hyperphosphorylation and aggregation of Tau isobserved in dementias like Alzheimer's disease.

What is needed in the art is a therapeutic agent that can act onmultiple targets of Alzheimer's disease pathology. It is believed thattherapeutic interventions that could postpone the onset and progressionof Alzheimer's disease would dramatically reduce the disease prevalence.Natural botanical formulations offer an attractive alternative to thetherapeutic intervention of Alzheimer's disease.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides compositions of chlorogenic acid andmethods for their use and manufacture in the treatment of Alzheimer'sdisease. The compositions provide a natural therapeutic agent thataddresses multiple targets of Alzheimer's disease pathologysimultaneously.

Thus, it is an object of the invention to provide a method for treatingAlzheimer's disease comprising administering to a patient in needthereof a composition comprising chlorogenic acid.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises at least one of3-Caffeoylquinic acid (3-CQA), 5-Caffeoylquinic acid (5-CQA),4-Caffeoylquinic acid (4-CQA), 3,4-Dicaffeoylquinic acid (3,4-DiCQA),3,5-Dicaffeoylquinic acid (3,5-DiCQA), and 4,5-Dicaffeoylquinic acid(4,5-DiCQA).

In some embodiments, the composition comprises 3-Caffeoylquinic acid(3-CQA), 5-Caffeoylquinic acid (5-CQA), 4-Caffeoylquinic acid (4-CQA),3,4-Dicaffeoylquinic acid (3,4-DiCQA), 3,5-Dicaffeoylquinic acid(3,5-DiCQA), and 4,5-Dicaffeoylquinic acid (4,5-DiCQA).

In some embodiments, the composition comprises, by weight, 4.1±1.42%3-Caffeoylquinic acid (3-CQA), 28±4.65% 5-Caffeoylquinic acid (5-CQA),6.5±2.25% 4-Caffeoylquinic acid (4-CQA), 0.84±0.26% 3,4-Dicaffeoylquinicacid (3,4-DiCQA), 1.23±0.34% 3,5-Dicaffeoylquinic acid (3,5-DiCQA), and1.85±0.42% 4,5-Dicaffeoylquinic acid (4,5-DiCQA).

In some embodiments, the composition is substantially free of any otherchlorogenic acid.

In some embodiments, the composition has a total chlorogenic acidcontent of 42.5±2.5% chlorogenic acid by weight.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows an HPLC chromatogram of sunflower seed chlorogenic acids.

FIG. 2 is an HPLC chromatogram showing the chlorogenic acids present inan embodiment of the inventive composition.

FIG. 3 is an LCMS/MS chromatogram of sunflower seed.

FIG. 4 is an LCMS/MS chromatogram showing the chlorogenic acids presentin an embodiment of the inventive composition.

FIG. 5 shows DPPH scavenging by an embodiment of the inventivecomposition (10 μg-100 μg/mL). The values are mean±SEM. The data weresignificant at p<0.0001 compared to ascorbic acid.

FIG. 6 shows in vitro acetylcholinesterase inhibition by an embodimentof the inventive composition. The values are mean±SEM. The data weresignificant at p<0.0001 compared to ascorbic acid.

FIG. 7 shows the effect of an embodiment of the inventive composition ontransfer latencies of mice in an elevated plus maze. The values aremean±SEM (n=8). The data were analyzed using two way ANOVA. **p<0.001compared to normal control

FIG. 8 shows the effect of an embodiment of the inventive composition onbrain cholinesterase activity of mice. Values are expressed in terms ofSEM±Mean. Data were analyzed by one way ANOVA followed by Dunnett's ttest. Number of animals in each group n=8. *Comparison made with controlgroup. #Comparison made with scopolamine group. #p<0.05, ***p<0.001,*p<0.05, ns—non significant.

FIG. 9 shows the effect of an embodiment of the inventive composition onsuperoxide dismutase activity (SOD) in scopolamine treated mice. Valuesare expressed as mean±SEM. Data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA followedby Dunnet's t test. Number of animals in each group n=8. The data weresignificant at p<0.05 when compared to positive control.

FIG. 10 shows the effect of an embodiment of the inventive compositionon catalase activity in scopolamine treated mice. Values are expressedas mean±SEM. Data were analyzed by one way ANOVA followed by Dunnet's ttest. Number of animals in each group n=8. The data were significant atp<0.05 when compared to positive control.

FIG. 11 shows the effect of an embodiment of the inventive compositionon melondialdehyde levels (MDA) in scopolamine treated mice. Values areexpressed as mean±SEM. Data were analysed by one way ANOVA followed byDunnet's t test. Number of animals in each group n=8. The data weresignificant at p<0.05 when compared to positive control.

FIG. 12 shows the effect of an embodiment of the inventive compositionon reduced GSH levels in scopolamine treated mice. Values are expressedas mean±SEM. Data were analyzed by one way ANOVA followed by Dunnet's ttest. Number of animals in each group n=8. The data were significant atp<0.05 when compared to positive control.

FIG. 13 shows the effect of the administration of an embodiment of theinventive composition on Tau hyperphosphorylation in mice brainhomogenates. Data are mean±SEM values of three individual experiments.The values were compared with the control using analysis of variancefollowed by Dunnet's multiple comparison test. *p<0.05, significantdifferences from the positive control group.

FIG. 14 shows predicted hydrogen bonding interactions (green spheres)between 3-O-caffeoylquinic acid and active residues of β-secratase (B)Binding of 3-O-caffeoylquinic acid with active pocket of β-secratase.

FIG. 15 shows interaction of 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid withacetylcholinesterase.

DEFINITIONS

The term “about” means greater or lesser than the value or range ofvalues stated by 1/10 of the stated values, but is not intended to limitany value or range of values to only this broader definition. Forinstance, a concentration value of about 30% means a concentrationbetween 27% and 33%. Each value or range of values preceded by the term“about” is also intended to encompass the embodiment of the statedabsolute value or range of values.

The phrase “chlorogenic acids” is a generic term which collectivelyrefers to monocaffeoylquinic acids including 3-caffeoylquinic acid,4-caffeoylquinic acid and 5-caffeoylquinic acid; monoferuloylquinic acidincluding 3-feruloylquinic acid, 4-feruloylquinic acid and5-feruloylquinic acid; and dicaffeoylquinic acid including3,4-dicaffeoylquinic acid, 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid and4,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid.

The term “increase,” or “enhance,” refers to any measurable increase ina target parameter that results from a given set of conditions relativeto the absence of such conditions.

The terms “purified” and “isolated” refer to a substance that is atleast 75%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 100% free of any other substance, includingany percentage that intervenes such specifically listed percentages.

The phrase “pharmaceutically acceptable carrier” refers to an ingredientin a pharmaceutical formulation, other than an active ingredient, whichis nontoxic to a subject. Pharmaceutically acceptable carriers include,but are not limited to, buffers, excipients, stabilizers, andpreservatives.

The term “reduce,” or “decrease,” refers to any measurable decrease in atarget parameter that results from a given set of conditions relative tothe absence of such conditions.

The terms “subject” and “patient” are used interchangeably herein torefer to an individual that receives the administration of an agent,including but not limited to the compositions of the invention, in thetreatment of a targeted condition, disease or disorder. Subjectsinclude, but are not limited to, mammals such as humans and livestock(e.g. sheep, cattle, horses, goats, pigs, and poultry), for example.Subjects include, but are not limited to, animals used in scientificresearch (e.g. mice, rats, rabbits, and guinea pigs), humans in clinicaltrials, and individuals once used as controls.

The phrase “substantially free” means that the substance to which itrefers is either completely absent or present in an insignificant amountsuch that the substance does not have any effect in the environment orbiological system in which the substance is introduced. Substantiallyfree can include a value that is less than 1 w/w %.

The term “treatment” (and grammatical variations thereof such as “treat”or “treating”) refers to clinical intervention in an attempt to alterthe natural course of a targeted disease, disorder or condition in thesubject being treated. Desirable effects of treatment include, but arenot limited to, alleviation or amelioration of one or more symptoms,diminishment of or delay in the appearance of or worsening of any director indirect pathological consequences of the targeted disease, decreaseof the rate of the targeted disease's progression, and amelioration orpalliation of the targeted disease state.

The phrase “early Alzheimer's disease” refers patients with mildcognitive impairment, such as a memory deficit, due to Alzheimer'sdisease and subjects having Alzheimer's disease biomarkers, for exampleamyloid positive patients.

The phrase “mild Alzheimer's disease” refers to a stage of Alzheimer'sdisease characterized by an MMSE score of 20 to 26.

The phrase “mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease” encompasses both mildand moderate Alzheimer's disease characterized by an MMSE score of 18 to26.

The phrase “moderate Alzheimer's Disease” refers to a stage ofAlzheimer's disease characterized by an MMSE score of 18 to 19.

The phrase “severe or late-stage Alzheimer's disease” refers to verysevere cognitive decline when individuals lose the ability to respond totheir environment, the ability to speak and, ultimately, the ability tocontrol movement.

The term “late-onset Alzheimer's disease” refers to Alzheimer's diseasewhich has a time of onset after the subject reaches 40 years of age.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides compositions comprising chlorogenic acidand methods for making and using such compositions in the treatment ofAlzheimer's disease.

In at least one embodiment, the invention provides a compositioncomprising one or more chlorogenic acids. The chlorogenic acids caninclude, but are not limited to, 3-O-caffeoylquinic acid (3 CQA),4-O-caffeoylquinic acid (4 CQA), 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid (5 CQA),5-O-feruloylquinic acid, 3,4-O-dicaffeoylquinic acid (3,4 Di CQA),3,5-O-dicaffeoylquinic acid (3, 5 Di CQA), 4,5-O-dicaffeoylquinic acid(4,5 Di CQA), and combinations thereof. The composition can comprise 3CQA, 5 CQA, 4 CQA, 3,4 Di CQA, 3,5 Di CQA, and 4,5 Di CQA. Thecomposition can comprise one or more chlorogenic acids, wherein thechlorogenic acids are selected from the group consisting of 3 CQA, 5CQA, 4 CQA, 3,4 Di CQA, 3,5 Di CQA, and 4,5 Di CQA. The composition cancomprise a mixture of chlorogenic acids consisting of 3 CQA, 5 CQA, 4CQA, 3,4 Di CQA, 3,5 Di CQA, and 4,5 Di CQA. The composition cancomprise a mixture of two or more chlorogenic acids, wherein thechlorogenic acids are selected from the group consisting of 3 CQA, 5CQA, 4 CQA, 3,4 Di CQA, 3,5 Di CQA, and 4,5 Di CQA. The composition cancomprise any combination of the chlorogenic acids disclosed herein,wherein one or more individual chlorogenic acid is specificallyexcluded. For example, the composition can be substantially free of oneor more of 3-caffeoylquinic acid, 4-caffeoylquinic acid and5-caffeoylquinic acid; monoferuloylquinic acid including3-feruloylquinic acid, 4-feruloylquinic acid and 5-feruloylquinic acid;and dicaffeoylquinic acid including 3,4-dicaffeoylquinic acid,3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid and 4,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid. The compositioncan be substantially free of monoferuloylquinic acids. The compositioncan be substantially free of one or more of 3-feruloylquinic acid,4-feruloylquinic acid and 5-feruloylquinic acid.

The composition can be formulated to attain a desired total chlorogenicacid content. As used herein, the phrases “total chlorogenic acidcontent” and “total chlorogenic acid” refer to the sum of thechlorogenic acids that are present in the composition. The totalchlorogenic acid content of the composition can be between about 20-100w/w %. The composition can comprise one or more chlorogenic acids,wherein the total chlorogenic acid content of the composition, is 20 w/w%, 21 w/w %, 22 w/w %, 23 w/w %, 24 w/w %, 25 w/w %, 26 w/w %, 27 w/w %,28 w/w %, 29 w/w %, 30 w/w %, 31 w/w %, 32 w/w %, 33 w/w %, 34 w/w %, 35w/w %, 36 w/w %, 37 w/w %, 38 w/w %, 39 w/w %, 40 w/w %, 41 w/w %, 42w/w %, 43 w/w %, 44 w/w %, 45 w/w %, 46 w/w %, 47 w/w %, 48 w/w %, 49w/w %, 50 w/w %, 51 w/w %, 52 w/w %, 53 w/w %, 54 w/w %, 55 w/w %, 56w/w %, 57 w/w %, 58 w/w %, 59 w/w %, 60 w/w %, 70 w/w %, 80 w/w %, 90w/w % or 100 w/w %, as well as any amount intervening these specificallydescribed amounts. The total chlorogenic acid content can be about 42w/w %. The total chlorogenic acid content can be 42.5±2.5 w/w %.

Specific ranges for the amount of individual chlorogenic acids that arepresent in the composition are within the scope of the invention. Forexample, the composition can comprise about 1-15 w/w % 3 CQA, about 5-50w/w % 5 CQA, about 1-20 w/w % 4 CQA, about 0.5-10 w/w % 3,4 Di CQA,about 0.5-10 w/w % 3,5 Di CQA, and about 0.5-10 w/w % 4,5 Di CQA,wherein the amounts of the individual chlorogenic acids are adjusted toachieve a total chlorogenic acid content that is 100 w/w % or lessrelative to the other constituents in the composition. The compositioncan comprise 4.1±1.42 w/w % 3CQA, 28±4.65 w/w % 5 CQA, 6.5±2.25 w/w % 4CQA, 0.84±0.26 w/w % 3,4 Di CQA, 1.23±0.34 w/w % 3,5 Di CQA, and1.85±0.42 w/w % 4,5 Di CQA. The composition can comprise 4.1±1.42 w/w %3CQA, 28±4.65 w/w % 5 CQA, 6.5±2.25 w/w % 4 CQA, 0.84±0.26 w/w % 3,4 DiCQA, 1.23±0.34 w/w % 3,5 Di CQA, and 1.85±0.42 w/w % 4,5 Di CQA, whereinthe total chlorogenic acid content of the composition is 42.5±2.5 w/w %.The composition can comprise 4.1±1.42 w/w % 3CQA, 28±4.65 w/w % 5 CQA,6.5±2.25 w/w % 4 CQA, 0.84±0.26 w/w % 3,4 Di CQA, 1.23±0.34 w/w % 3,5 DiCQA, and 1.85±0.42 w/w % 4,5 Di CQA, wherein the composition issubstantially free of other any other chlorogenic acid. The compositioncan comprise a mixture of chlorogenic acids consisting of 4.1±1.42 w/w %3CQA, 28±4.65 w/w % 5 CQA, 6.5±2.25 w/w % 4 CQA, 0.84±0.26 w/w % 3,4 DiCQA, 1.23±0.34 w/w % 3,5 Di CQA, and 1.85±0.42 w/w % 4,5 Di CQA. Thecomposition can comprise a mixture of chlorogenic acids consisting ofabout 4 w/w % 3CQA, about 28 w/w % 5 CQA, about 7 w/w % 4 CQA, about 1w/w % 3,4 Di CQA, about 1 w/w % 3,5 Di CQA, and about 2 w/w % 4,5 DiCQA. The composition can comprise about 4 w/w % 3CQA, about 28 w/w % 5CQA, about 7 w/w % 4 CQA, about 1 w/w % 3,4 Di CQA, about 1 w/w % 3,5 DiCQA, and about 2 w/w % 4,5 Di CQA, wherein the composition issubstantially free of any other chlorogenic acid. It will be understoodthat all amounts of chlorogenic acids referenced in the presentdisclosure, including total chlorogenic acid content, can be obtained byany suitable method available to one skilled in the art. Such methodsinclude, but are not limited to, HPLC and the Folin-Ciocalteus method.

In some aspects of the invention, the composition comprises a mixture ofchlorogenic acids, wherein the individual chlorogenic acids are presentin a desired ratio. The ratio of the chlorogenic acids can be derivedfrom any weight to weight percentage disclosed herein. For example, acomposition comprising 4.1±1.42 w/w % 3CQA, 28±4.65 w/w % 5 CQA,6.5±2.25 w/w % 4 CQA, 0.84±0.26 w/w % 3,4 Di CQA, 1.23±0.34 w/w % 3,5 DiCQA, and 1.85±0.42 w/w % 4,5 Di CQA can provide a composition comprisingsaid chlorogenic acids in a ratio of 4.9:33.3:7.7:1.0:1.5:2.2, byweight. Thus, the composition can comprise 3 CQA, 5 CQA, 4 CQA, 3,4 DiCQA, 3,5 Di CQA, and 4,5 Di CQA in a ratio of about4.9:33.3:7.7:1.0:1.5:2.2, by weight. The composition can comprise 3 CQA,5 CQA, 4 CQA, 3,4 Di CQA, 3,5 Di CQA, and 4,5 Di CQA in a ratio of about5:33:8:1:1:2, by weight. The composition can comprise 3 CQA, 5 CQA, 4CQA, 3,4 Di CQA, 3,5 Di CQA, and 4,5 Di CQA in a ratio of about4:28:7:1:1:2, by weight. The compositions expressed as a ratio hereincan further comprise another component in addition to the chlorogenicacids. Such components include, but are not limited to, pharmaceuticallyacceptable carriers, excipients, flavourings, sweeteners, vitamins,minerals, amino acids, proteins, peptides, enzymes, bulking agents,binding agents, emulsifiers, oils (e.g. comestible oils such as peanutoil, coconut oil, safflower oil, sunflower oil, canola oil, olive oil,vegetable oil, corn oil, and the like), lecithins, starches, pectins,sugars, preservatives, colourings, pharmaceuticals (e.g. smallmolecules), antibodies, natural and synthetic hormones, or a combinationthereof.

In some aspects, the invention provides a method for making acomposition comprising chlorogenic acids. Such methods can be practicedusing one or more commercially available purified (e.g. reagent grade)chlorogenic acids. The method can comprise providing two or morepurified chlorogenic acids, and combining the chlorogenic acids toachieve the mixtures of chlorogenic acids, and their relative amounts,as described herein. For example, the composition can be made bycombining purified chlorogenic acids to provide a composition comprising4.1±1.42 w/w % 3CQA, 28±4.65 w/w % 5 CQA, 6.5±2.25 w/w % 4 CQA,0.84±0.26 w/w % 3,4 Di CQA, 1.23±0.34 w/w % 3,5 Di CQA, and 1.85±0.42w/w % 4,5 Di CQA. The composition can be made by combining purifiedchlorogenic acids to provide a composition comprising 4.1±1.42 w/w %3CQA, 28±4.65 w/w % 5 CQA, 6.5±2.25 w/w % 4 CQA, 0.84±0.26 w/w % 3,4 DiCQA, 1.23±0.34 w/w % 3,5 Di CQA, and 1.85±0.42 w/w % 4,5 Di CQA, whereinthe composition is substantially free of any other chlorogenic acids.The composition can be made by combining purified chlorogenic acids toprovide a composition comprising a mixture of chlorogenic acidsconsisting of 4.1±1.42 w/w % 3CQA, 28±4.65 w/w % 5 CQA, 6.5±2.25 w/w % 4CQA, 0.84±0.26 w/w % 3,4 Di CQA, 1.23±0.34 w/w % 3,5 Di CQA, and1.85±0.42 w/w % 4,5 Di CQA. The composition can be made by combiningpurified chlorogenic acids to provide a composition comprising 4.1±1.42w/w % 3CQA, 28±4.65 w/w % 5 CQA, 6.5±2.25 w/w % 4 CQA, 0.84±0.26 w/w %3,4 Di CQA, 1.23±0.34 w/w % 3,5 Di CQA, and 1.85±0.42 w/w % 4,5 Di CQA,wherein the composition has a total chlorogenic acid content of 42.5±2.5w/w %.

Methods for making the inventive composition can be practiced withchlorogenic acids obtained from any botanical source that contains thechlorogenic acids that are desired for use in the composition. Thebotanical source of chlorogenic acids can be sunflower (Helianthusannus). The chlorogenic acids can be formulated from any sunflowermaterial capable of providing the desired chlorogenic acids. Thesunflower material can be fresh or dried. The composition can beformulated from sunflower seeds (e.g. green seeds, or dried or powderedseeds), leaves, stems, stalks, flowers, pollen, roots, or a combinationthereof. In some aspects, the composition is formulated from sunflowerseeds. In other aspects, the composition is formulated from sunflowerseed powder. The botanical source of chlorogenic acids can be greencoffee beans. In some aspects of the invention, chlorogenic acids arederived from the botanical source by extraction. One skilled in the artwill appreciate that the chlorogenic acids can be extracted from thebotanical source using any suitable extraction method. Suitable solventsfor extracting the chlorogenic acids include, but are not limited to,polar solvents (e.g. protic and aprotic), non-polar solvents,supercritical fluids, and the like. Suitable protic solvents include,but are not limited to, acetic acid, methanol and ethanol. Suitableaprotic solvents include, but are not limited to, ethyl acetate andtetrahydrofuran. The solvent can be water, including, but not limitedto, demineralized water, reverse osmosis water, distilled water, or acombination thereof. In some aspects, solvent extraction is combinedwith cation exchange chromatography to achieve enhanced purification ofthe chlorogenic acids desired for the compositions described herein.Suitable methods for extracting chlorogenic acids are described in thefollowing publications, the entire disclosures of which are incorporatedherein by reference for all purposes: U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,309,150;9,029,588; 9,301,939; and US 20150231103.

Some aspects of the invention concern formulating the composition foradministration to a subject. Accordingly, the compositions of theinvention can be formulated to be administered orally, sublingually,intranasally, topically, intravenously, intramuscularly, subcutaneously,subdermally, buccally, parenterally, intravaginally, rectally, and byinhalation. The composition can be in a dosage form that includes, butis not limited to, a powder, pill, tablet, pellet, capsule, thin film,solution, spray, syrup, linctus, lozenge, pastille, chewing gum, paste,vapour, suspension, solution, emulsion, ointment, cream, lotion,liniment, gel, drop, topical patch, buccal patch, bead, gummy, gel, sol,injection, and the like. The composition can comprise at least onepharmaceutically acceptable carrier. Suitable carriers for use with theinvention include, but are not limited to, those disclosed inRemington's Pharmaceutical Sciences, 18th ed. the disclosure of which isincorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. Thepharmaceutically acceptable carrier can be an artificial pharmaceuticalcarrier. The composition can be formulated to achieve a timed release.The composition can be formulated with enteric coatings, orencapsulated, such as by liposomes or micelles, for example.

In some aspects of the invention, the composition comprises one or moreother components. Such components include, but are not limited to,flavourings, sweeteners, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, proteins,peptides, enzymes, bulking agents, binding agents, emulsifiers, oils(e.g. comestible oils such as peanut oil, coconut oil, safflower oil,sunflower oil, canola oil, olive oil, vegetable oil, corn oil, and thelike), lecithins, starches, pectins, sugars, preservatives, colourings,pharmaceuticals (e.g. small molecules), antibodies, natural andsynthetic hormones, and the like.

In at least one aspect, the invention provides a method for treatingAlzheimer's disease in a subject in need thereof comprisingadministering to the subject a composition comprising chlorogenic acid,wherein administering the composition to the subject treats Alzheimer'sdisease in the subject. The composition can comprise one of more of thecompositions described herein. The composition can comprise 3 CQA, 5CQA, 4 CQA, 3,4 Di CQA, 3,5 Di CQA, and 4,5 Di CQA. The composition cancomprise one or more chlorogenic acids selected from the groupconsisting of 3 CQA, 5 CQA, 4 CQA, 3,4 Di CQA, 3,5 Di CQA, and 4,5 DiCQA. The composition can comprise 4.1±1.42 w/w % 3CQA, 28±4.65 w/w % 5CQA, 6.5±2.25 w/w % 4 CQA, 0.84±0.26 w/w % 3,4 Di CQA, 1.23±0.34 w/w %3,5 Di CQA, and 1.85±0.42 w/w % 4,5 Di CQA. The composition can comprise4.1±1.42 w/w % 3CQA, 28±4.65 w/w % 5 CQA, 6.5±2.25 w/w % 4 CQA,0.84±0.26 w/w % 3,4 Di CQA, 1.23±0.34 w/w % 3,5 Di CQA, and 1.85±0.42w/w % 4,5 Di CQA, wherein the composition is substantially free of anyother chlorogenic acid. The composition can comprise 4.1±1.42 w/w %3CQA, 28±4.65 w/w % 5 CQA, 6.5±2.25 w/w % 4 CQA, 0.84±0.26 w/w % 3,4 DiCQA, 1.23±0.34 w/w % 3,5 Di CQA, and 1.85±0.42 w/w % 4,5 Di CQA, whereinthe total chlorogenic acid content of the composition is 42.5±2.5 w/w %.The composition can comprise a mixture of two or more chlorogenic acids,wherein the chlorogenic acids are selected from the group consisting of3 CQA, 5 CQA, 4 CQA, 3,4 Di CQA, 3,5 Di CQA, and 4,5 Di CQA. Thecomposition can comprise a mixture of chlorogenic acids consisting of 3CQA, 5 CQA, 4 CQA, 3,4 Di CQA, 3,5 Di CQA, and 4,5 Di CQA. Thecomposition can comprise chlorogenic acids derived from a botanicalsource. The composition can comprise chlorogenic acids derived fromsunflower seed. The composition can comprise an extract of sunflowerseed.

In some aspects of the invention, the invention provides a method fortreating Alzheimer's disease in a subject in need thereof comprisingadministering to the subject a composition comprising an extract ofsunflower seed, wherein the extract comprises 3 CQA, 5 CQA, 4 CQA, 3,4Di CQA, 3,5 Di CQA, and 4,5 Di CQA. The extract can comprise a mixtureof chlorogenic acids consisting of 3 CQA, 5 CQA, 4 CQA, 3,4 Di CQA, 3,5Di CQA, and 4,5 Di CQA. The extract can comprise 4.1±1.42 w/w % 3CQA,28±4.65 w/w % 5 CQA, 6.5±2.25 w/w % 4 CQA, 0.84±0.26 w/w % 3,4 Di CQA,1.23±0.34 w/w % 3,5 Di CQA, and 1.85±0.42 w/w % 4,5 Di CQA. The extractcan comprise 4.1±1.42 w/w % 3CQA, 28±4.65 w/w % 5 CQA, 6.5±2.25 w/w % 4CQA, 0.84±0.26 w/w % 3,4 Di CQA, 1.23±0.34 w/w % 3,5 Di CQA, and1.85±0.42 w/w % 4,5 Di CQA, wherein the total chlorogenic acid contentof the composition is 42.5±2.5 w/w %. The extract can comprise 4.1±1.42w/w % 3CQA, 28±4.65 w/w % 5 CQA, 6.5±2.25 w/w % 4 CQA, 0.84±0.26 w/w %3,4 Di CQA, 1.23±0.34 w/w % 3,5 Di CQA, and 1.85±0.42 w/w % 4,5 Di CQA,wherein the extract is substantially free of any other chlorogenicacids.

The method of the invention can be practiced by administering thecomposition according to any administration route capable of providing atherapeutic effect in the subject. Suitable administration routesinclude, but are not limited to orally, topically, buccally,sub-lingually, parenterally, intravenously, intraarterially,subdermally, subcutaneously, ocularly, intravaginally, rectally, byinhalation, or a combination thereof. The composition can beadministered as a powder, liquid, pill, tablet, pellet, capsule, thinfilm, solution, spray, syrup, linctus, lozenge, pastille, chewing gum,paste, vapor, suspension, emulsion, ointment, cream, lotion, liniment,gel, drop, topical patch, buccal patch, bead, gummy, gel, sol, orinjection.

The composition can be administered at a dose of between about 5 mg/dayto about 500 mg/day. The composition can be administered at a dosebetween about 20 mg/day to about 1 g/day. The composition of theinvention can be administered at a dose of about 20 mg/day, about 21mg/day, about 22 mg/day, about 23 mg/day, about 24 mg/day, about 25mg/day, about 26 mg/day, about 27 mg/day, about 27 mg/day, about 28mg/day, about 29 mg/day, about 30 mg/day, about 31 mg/day, about 32mg/day, about 33 mg/day, about 34 mg/day, about 35 mg/day, about 40mg/day, about 45 mg/day, about 50 mg/day, about 100 mg/day, about 150mg/day, about 200 mg/day, about 250 mg/day, about 300 mg/day, about 350mg/day, about 400 mg/day, about 450 mg/day, or about 500 mg/day, as wellas any dosage intervening these specifically disclosed amounts. Thecomposition can be administered at a dosage of between about 400 mg/dayto about 500 mg/day, between about 300 mg/day to about 400 mg/day,between about 200 mg/day to about 300 mg/day, between about 100 mg/dayto about 200 mg/day, between about 100 mg/day to about 200 mg/day, orabout 20 mg/day to about 100 mg/day. It is contemplated that thecomposition can be administered at any dosage that intervenes thedosages called out in this specification. The composition can beadministered at 200 mg/day for 14 days. The composition can beadministered at 400 mg/day for 14 days.

The composition can be administered at a dose that is determined by thebody weight of the subject. The dose can be about 5 mg/kg to about 500mg/kg. The composition can be administered at a dose of about 20 mg/kg,about 21 mg/kg, about 22 mg/kg, about 23 mg/kg, about 24 mg/kg, about 25mg/kg, about 26 mg/kg, about 27 mg/kg, about 27 mg/kg, about 28 mg/kg,about 29 mg/kg, about 30 mg/kg, about 31 mg/kg, about 32 mg/kg, about 33mg/kg, about 34 mg/kg, about 35 mg/kg, about 40 mg/kg, about 45 mg/kg,about 50 mg/kg, about 100 mg/kg, about 150 mg/kg, about 200 mg/kg, about250 mg/kg, about 300 mg/kg, about 350 mg/kg, about 400 mg/kg, about 450mg/kg, or about 500 mg/kg, as well as any dosage intervening thesespecifically disclosed amounts. The composition can be administered at adosage of between about 400 mg/kg to about 500 mg/kg, about 300 mg/kg toabout 400 mg/kg, about 200 mg/kg to about 300 mg/kg, about 100 mg/kg toabout 200 mg/kg, about 100 mg/kg to about 200 mg/kg, or about 20 mg/kgto about 100 mg/kg. It is contemplated that the composition can beadministered at any dosage that intervenes the dosages called out inthis specification. The dosages by body weight disclosed herein can beadministered one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight or moretimes per day. The composition can be administered at 200 mg/kg per dayfor 14 days. The composition can be administered at 400 mg/kg per dayfor 14 days.

In at least one embodiment, the invention provides a method forpreventing Alzheimer's disease in a subject in need thereof, wherein themethod comprises administering to the subject the composition describedherein. The method can prevent Alzheimer's disease in a subject at riskof developing Alzheimer's disease. The method can prevent Alzheimer'sdisease in a subject that is pre-symptomatic for Alzheimer's disease.

The subject can have early Alzheimer's disease. The subject can havemild Alzheimer's disease. The subject can have mild to moderateAlzheimer's disease. The subject can have moderate Alzheimer's disease.The subject can have severe or late-stage Alzheimer's disease. Thesubject can have early onset or late-onset Alzheimer's disease. Thesubject can have cerebral amyloidosis. Treating subjects for Alzheimer'sdisease as disclosed herein can alleviate or ameliorate one or moresymptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Treating subjects for Alzheimer'sdisease as disclosed herein can diminish or delay in the appearance ofor worsening of any direct or indirect pathological consequences ofAlzheimer's disease. Treating subjects for Alzheimer's disease asdisclosed herein can decrease the rate of the progression of Alzheimer'sdisease in the subject. In some aspects, the method of the inventiontreats one or more symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Symptoms caninclude, but are not limited to, memory deficits, impaired cognition,dementia and impaired speech. The method of the invention can alleviateor ameliorate one or more symptoms, diminish or delay the appearance ofor worsening of symptoms, and/or decrease the rate of the progression ofsymptoms.

Without being limited to any particular theory or mechanism,administering the composition to the subject treats Alzheimer's diseaseby imparting one or more therapeutic effects in the brain tissue of thesubject. Such therapeutic effects include, but are not limited to:inhibiting Tau phosphorylation; inhibiting the formation of beta amyloidplaques; inhibiting the formation of neurofibrillary tangles; inhibitingacetylcholinesterase activity; inhibiting reductions in GSH levels;increasing glutathione (GSH) levels; inhibiting reductions in superoxidedismutase (SOD) activity; increasing SOD activity; inhibiting betasecretase; and inhibiting lipid peroxidation. Administering thecomposition can restore GSH levels to normal. Administering thecomposition can restore Tau phosphorylation levels to normal.Administering the composition can restore acetylcholinesterase activityto normal.

In at least one embodiment, the composition of the invention finds usein a variety of therapeutic and preventive applications. In someembodiments, the composition is administered to a subject for preventingoxidation and the production of free radicals in the subject (i.e.antioxidant activity). Thus, the composition can have a nutritive effectfor maintaining and promoting health in a subject.

The present disclosure is further described in the light of thefollowing non-limiting examples which are set forth for illustrationpurpose only and not to be construed for limiting the scope of thedisclosure.

EXAMPLES

Example 1 exemplifies an embodiment of the composition of the inventionand method of making thereof. Example 2 exemplifies the analyticalexamination of a composition of the invention. Example 3 exemplifies theantioxidant and acetylcholinesterase activities of a composition of theinvention in vitro. Example 4 exemplifies the use of a composition ofthe invention in the prevention of dementia using experimental animals.Example 5 exemplifies the use of a composition of the invention in theinhibition of acetylcholinesterase and beta secratase using in silicodocking studies.

Example 1

This example describes the preparation of one embodiment of thecomposition. The processes described in this example can be scaled up toproduce larger quantities of the composition. The details provided forpreparation of the following composition reflect the presently preferredmethod for extract preparations and should not be considered aslimiting. The quantities and times described below can be variedsubstantially to provide suitable formulations derived from sunflowerseed in accordance with the invention.

Preparation of Composition

100 kg of sunflower seed powder (20-40 mesh) was taken into a cleanvertical 1.0 kL extractor. The bottom of the extractor comprised aperforated plate on which filtration cloth was fixed. The bottom of theextractor was connected to a transfer pump, input and outputs of thetransfer pump connected to a T bend. One end was connected to theextractor top for circulation of the extraction mass during theextraction period and other end of the T bend was connected to areceiver tank.

The above mentioned mass was extracted with 7-8 bed volumes ofdemineralised water. Extraction was continued at 80-85° C. temperatureabout 7-8 hrs with continuous circulation of extract with transfer pump.After completion of extraction, the extract was filtered through a 5micron SS candle filter and clear extract collected in a receiver tank.The bed was re-extracted by adding 5-6 bed volumes of demineralisedwater 3 more times at 80-85° C. temperature about 7-8 hrs and filterthrough 5 micron SS candle filter. All the extracts were collected in areceiver tank and the combined extract concentrated in a reactor undervacuum at 80-85° C. till extract TDS reach 25-30 w/v % and cooled toroom temperature. The oily layer was separated and an aqueous layer of40-50 L was collected.

The pH of the above aqueous layer was adjusted to 2-2.2 with diluteinorganic acid (H₂SO₄, HCl or H₃PO₄) and stirred well about 15 minutes.The solution was filtered through a celite bed to make it into clearsolution. The filtrate was loaded into a macroreticular polymericadsorption (Amberlite XAD-16N, XAD-16, XAD-7, and XAD-4 Made by Rohm &Haas Company) resin column at the rate of 2-3 bed volumes/hour. Theresin bed was washed with 4-6 bed volumes of demineralised water at therate of 2-3 bed volumes/hour and eluted with 3-4 bed volumes of 70-80v/v % aliphatic alcohol preferably ethyl alcohol at the rate of 2-3 bedvolumes/hour. The eluent in the reactor was concentrated at 75-80° C.under reduced pressure until free from ethyl alcohol. The resulting masswas dissolved into demineralised water until the TDS reached 25-30 w/v%. The solution pH was made up to 4.5-4.6 by adding dilute sodiumbicarbonate solution in order to get a clear solution. The extract wasspray dried at 210±5° C. Yield of the extract was about 2.8±0.2 w/w %.

Properties of the Inventive Composition

Total polyphenols by Folin-Ciocalteus method measured 47.5±2.5 w/w %.

Total chlorogenic acids by HPLC analysis measured 42.5±2.5 w/w %.

Chlorogenic acid content of the composition is described in Table 1.

TABLE 1 Chlorogenic acids composition of an embodiment of the inventivecomposition Molecule Quantity (w/w %) 3-Caffeoylquinic acid (3-CQA)  4.1± 1.42 5-Caffeoylquinic acid (5-CQA)  28 ± 4.65 4- Caffeoylquinic acid(4-CQA)  6.5 ± 2.25 3,4-Dicaffeoylquinic acid (3,4-DiCQA) 0.84 ± 0.263,5-Dicaffeoylquinic acid (3,5-DiCQA) 1.23 ± 0.34 4,5- Dicaffeoylquinicacid (4,5-DiCQA) 1.85 ± 0.42

Content of Sunflower Seed Extract

Total polyphenols by Folin-Cioucalteus method measured 1.8±0.4 w/w %.Total chlorogenic acids by HPLC analysis method measured 1.65±0.25 w/w%.Chlorogenic acid composition of sunflower seed is tabulated as below(Table 2).

TABLE 2 Chlorogenic acid content of sunflower seeds Molecule Quantity(w/w %) 3-Caffeoylquinic acid (3-CQA) 0.04 ± 0.02 5-Caffeoylquinic acid(5-CQA) 1.35 ± 0.25 4- Caffeoylquinic acid (4-CQA) 0.08 ± 0.043,4-Dicaffeoylquinic acid (3,4-DiCQA) 0.0068 ± 0.00013,5-Dicaffeoylquinic acid (3,5-DiCQA)  0.1 ± 0.04 4,5- Dicaffeoylquinicacid (4,5-DiCQA) 0.08 ± 0.02

All references to the “composition,” “the inventive composition,” and“SUN-CA” in the following examples and their results shall refer to thecomposition prepared according to Example 1, unless expressly statedotherwise.

Example 2

This example describes the phytochemical analysis of the compositionfrom Example 1.

Estimation of Total Polyphenolic Content in the Composition byFolin-Ciocalteu's Method

Preparation of Standard Curve:

100 mg of standard chlorogenic acid (98% pure) was dissolved in 100 mLof 50% methanol solution (1 mg/mL) and then further diluted to 30, 60,90, 120, 150 and 180 μg/mL. 1 mL aliquot of each dilution was taken in atest tube and diluted with 10 mL of distilled water. Then 1.5 mL FolinCiocalteu's reagent was added and allowed to incubate at roomtemperature for 5 minutes. Four mL of 20% (w/w) Na₂CO₃ was added in eachtest tube, adjusted with distilled water up to the mark of 25 mL,agitated and left to stand for 30 min at room temperature. Absorbance ofthe standard was measured at 755 nm using UV/VIS spectrophotometer(Schimadzu, Japan) against blank (distilled water).

Sample Preparation

15-20 mg of the composition was taken into 100 mL of volumetric flask,then added to about 50 mL of 50% methanol solution and sonicated for 5minutes. The volume was made up to 100 mL with 50% methanol. 5.0 mL ofthe above solution was further diluted to 10 mL using 50% methanol.

Procedure

15 mL of the 50% methanol solution was taken into a series of testtubes. To this 1 mL of Folin-Ciocalteu reagent was added followed by 1mL of sample solution. The reaction mixture was allowed to incubate atroom temperature for 5 minutes. Four mL of 20% (w/w) Na₂CO₃ was added ineach test tube, adjusted with distilled water up to the mark of 25 mL,agitated and left to stand for 30 min at room temperature. Absorbance ofthe standard was measured at 755 nm using UV/VIS spectrophotometer(Schimadzu, Japan) against blank (distilled water). The percentage oftotal polyphenols was determined as below:

${\%\mspace{14mu}{Total}\mspace{14mu}{polyphenols}} = \frac{\frac{A_{sample} - b}{m} \times V \times {DF} \times 100}{W_{sample} \times 1000}$

Where, V—original volume (50 mL), W—sample weight in grams, DF—Dilutionfactor, A_(sample)—Sample absorbance, m,b—Coefficients of standard curveslope and y-intercept

Determination of Total Chlorogenic Acids in Sunflower Seed and theComposition by HPLC Analysis Analytical Parameters

-   Column: XB-C18 100A, 2.6 μm, 50×2.1 mm Phenomenex.(Kinetex)-   Pump: Nexera X2, LC-30AD Shimadzu-   Detector: SPD-M20A PDA-   Wave length: 325 nm-   Flow rate: 0.6 mL/min-   Volume of injection: 1 μL-   Run time: 7 min-   Mobile phase: 0.1% Formic acid in HPLC grade water:Acetonitrile-   Reference standard: Chlorogenic acid sigma standard—98%

Gradient: Time Concentration (Acetonitrile) 0.01 5 4.0 20 5.0 5 7.0 Stop

Standard Preparation

15-20 mg of standard chlorogenic acid (98%) was weighed accurately into50 ml standard flask, added to 30 ml 70% methanol (LCMS grade) andsonicated about 10 minutes. The volume was made up to the mark with samesolvent. 10 mL of the above solution was pipetted to 50 mL standardflask and made up to the mark with same solvent and sonicated about 10minutes.

Sample Preparation

40-50 mg of sample was weighed accurately into 50 ml standard flask,added 30 ml 70% methanol (LCMS grade) and sonicated about 10 minutes.The volume was made up to the mark with same solvent. 10 mL of the abovesolution was pipetted to 50 mL standard flask and made up to the markwith same solvent and sonicated about 10 minutes.

Raw Material Sample Preparation

1000-1500 mg of raw material powder was weighed accurately into 100 mLRB flask, added 40 mL 70% methanol. The mixture was refluxed about 30minutes and cooled to room temperature followed by filtration in a 100mL standard flask. The extraction was repeated twice with 30 mL of 70%methanol and filtered. The solution was made up to 100 mL using 70%methanol and sonicated about 10 minutes.

Calculation:

${\%\mspace{14mu}{of}\mspace{14mu}{Chlorogenic}\mspace{14mu}{acids}} = \frac{\begin{matrix}{{{Peak}\mspace{14mu}{area}\mspace{14mu}{of}\mspace{14mu}{the}\mspace{14mu}{sample} \times {{Conc}.}}\mspace{14mu}} \\{{of}\mspace{14mu}{the}\mspace{14mu}{STD} \times {purity}\mspace{14mu}{of}\mspace{14mu}{the}\mspace{14mu}{STD}}\end{matrix}}{\begin{matrix}{{Peak}\mspace{14mu}{area}\mspace{14mu}{of}\mspace{14mu}{the}\mspace{14mu}{standard} \times} \\{{{Conc}.\mspace{14mu}{of}}\mspace{14mu}{the}\mspace{14mu}{sample}}\end{matrix}}$

Analytical Parameters

-   Column: XB-C18 Phenomenex (Kinetex), 100 A, 2.6 μm & 50×2.1 mm-   Pump: Nexera X2, LC-30AD Shimadzu-   Detector: SPD-M20A PDA and LCMS/MS 8040-   Wave length: 325 nm-   Flow rate: 0.6 mL/min-   Volume of injection: 1 μL-   Run time: 7 min.-   Mobile phase (A:B): 0.1% Formic acid in LCMS grade water:    Acetonitrile-   DL Temp.: 300° C.-   Nebulizing gas flow: 3 L/min.-   Heat block temp: 400° C.-   Drying gas flow: 15 L/min.-   MS detection: ESI −ve mode, SIM at m/z 353 and 515, MRM at m/z    191,178 and 353

Gradient: Time B concentration (Acetonitrile) 0.01 5 4.0 20 5.0 5 7.0Stop

Sample Preparation

40-50 mg of sample was weighed accurately into 50 mL standard flask,added 30 mL 70% methanol (LCMS grade) and sonicated about 10 minutes.Volume was made up to the mark with the same solvent. 10 mL of the abovesolution was pipetted into 50 mL standard flask and make up to the markwith same solvent and sonicated about 10 minutes.

Raw Material Sample Preparation

1000-1500 mg of raw material powder was weighed accurately into 100 mLRB flask, added 40 mL 70% methanol (LCMS grade). The mixture wasrefluxed about 30 minutes and cooled to room temperature followed byfiltration in a 100 mL standard flask. The extraction was repeated twicewith 30 mL of 70% methanol and filtered. The solution was made up to 100mL using 70% methanol and sonicated about 10 minutes.

Example 3

This example relates the use of the inventive composition forantioxidant and acetylcholinesterase activities in vitro.

The sample was prepared in 10% dimethyl sulphoxide (1 mg/mL) and furtherdiluted to 10, 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100 μg/mL for the in vitro studies.

In Vitro Antioxidant Studies Determination of2,2-Diphenyl-1-Picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) Radical Scavenging Assay

The free radical scavenging capacity of the inventive composition wasdetermined using DPPH scavenging assay (Braca et al. 2001). DPPHsolution was prepared in 95% methanol. Freshly prepared DPPH solutionwas taken in test tubes and different concentration of test samples wereadded and incubated for 20 min. The absorbance was read at 517 nm usinga spectrophotometer. Blank was prepared containing the same volume ofreaction mixture without any test sample. The percentage of scavengingwas calculated using following formula:

% Scavenging=A _(c) −A _(s) /A _(c)×100

-   -   Where A_(C) was the absorbance of the control (blank) and A_(s)        was the absorbance in the presence of the composition.

The results set out in FIG. 5 below demonstrate strong free radicalscavenging of the inventive composition in a concentration dependentmanner. The percentage scavenging was 87.35±0.53 at 100 μg/mLconcentration of the composition. The data were highly significantcompared to standard ascorbic acid (p<0.0001). The IC50 value of thecomposition was determined to be 38.49 μg/mL.

Determination of Acetylcholinesterase Activity

Inhibition of acetylcholinesterase activity was measured using a 96-wellmicroplate reader (Thermo Scientific Multiscan EX) based on Ellman'smethod (Ellman et al. 1961). In the 96-well plates, a reaction mixtureof 25 μl of 15 mM acetylthiocholine iodide in water, 125 μl of 3 mM DTNBand 25 μl of different concentrations of the composition were added, andthe absorbance was measured at 405 nm. Thereafter, 25 μl of AChEsolution (0.22 U/ml) was added to the wells and the microplate was readagain at the same wavelength 10 times with 1 min intervals. Galanthaminedissolved in methanol was used as standard drug at 1 mg/mlconcentrations; a blank of methanol in 50 mM Tris-HCl, (pH 8) was used.The percentage inhibition for each test solution was then calculatedusing the following equation:

Inhibition (%)=1−(A _(sample) /A _(control))×100

-   -   Where A_(sample) is the absorbance of the sample and A_(control)        is the absorbance of the blank.

Estimation of IC50 Values

The IC50 values (concentration of test compounds that inhibits thehydrolysis of substrates by 50%) were determined by spectrophotometricmeasurement of the effect of increasing concentrations of test compounds(the composition and positive control) on enzyme activity. To calculatethe IC50 values, each sample was assayed at five concentrations (100,80, 40, 20, 10 μg/ml). IC50 values were obtained from dose-effect curvesby linear regression.

The inhibition effect of the composition was clearly evident from thisin vitro assay (FIG. 6). The results were comparable to the standardgalanthamine and found significant at p<0.001. The composition exhibitedprofound inhibitory activity with an IC50 value 43 μg/mL. At 100 g/mLconcentration, the composition showed appreciable effect with apercentage inhibition of 70.24±0.82.

Example 4

This example relates to the use of the composition in the prevention ofdementia such as Alzheimer's disease using experimental animals. Thecomposition was evaluated for the neuroprotection in scopolamine-induceddementia including the parameters such as determination ofacetylcholinesterase inhibition and antioxidant enzyme activities,quantification of Tau hyperphosphorylation in brain.

Animals: Albino mice

Gender: Male

No of animals: 40

Housing: 6/cage, 12 hrs light/dark cycle

Temperature: 25±2

Scopolamine-Induced Dementia in Mice

Scopolamine induced Alzheimer's type dementia model has been widely usedto provide a pharmacological model of memory dysfunction for screeningpotential cognition enhancing agents. The cognitive-enhancing activityof the composition on scopolamine induced memory impairments in rats wasinvestigated by using behavioural and biochemical parameters.

Experimental Design

Male Albino mice divided into six groups with eight animals in eachgroup. The experimental design for the evaluation of the composition isdetailed in Table 3.

TABLE 3 Experimental design for the evaluation of cognitive function inmice Groups Treatment Dose No. of animals Group I Control 10 ml/kg 8vehicle p.o. Group II Scopolamine 0.5 mg/kg, 10 ml/kg 8 i.p vehicle p.o.Group III Donepezil +  5 mg/kg p.o. 8 Scopolamine 0.5 mg/kg, i.p GroupIV Composition + 200 mg/kg p.o. 8 Scopolamine 0.5 mg/kg, i.p Group VComposition + 400 mg/kg p.o. 8 Scopolamine 0.5 mg/kg, i.p

Experimental model: An elevated plus-maze consisting of two open and twoenclosed arms was employed for an evaluation of cognition improvementupon treatment with the composition in mice.

The study parameters included transfer latency, inhibition ofacetylcholineterase activity, antioxidant enzyme activities and Tauprotein hyperphosphorylation.

Elevated Plus Maze Test

The plus-maze was made of plywood and consisted of two open arms(21.5×7.5 cm) and two enclosed arms (21.5×7.5×20 cm) which extended froma central 7.5×7.5 cm platform. The plus-maze was elevated 38 cm abovethe floor. The enclosed arms were painted black. The procedure of thetest was similar to that described by Itoh et al. (1990). On the 1st day(training) a mouse was placed at the end of one open arm, facing awayfrom the central platform. The latency for the mouse to move from theopen to one of the enclosed arms was recorded. Following entry into thearm the animals were allowed to explore the apparatus for 30 s.Twenty-four hours later, the second trial (retention test) wasperformed. The drugs were administered immediately after the 1sttraining day, i.e., soon after the mouse was removed from the maze.After behavioural testing, mice were sacrificed and their hippocampiwere removed for biochemical assays.

Transfer latency (TL) on the first day (14^(th) day of treatment)reflected acquisition of learning behaviour of mice while TL on next dayreflected retention of memory. The composition was administered for 14days and had significant effect (p<0.001) on TL on the 14^(th) and15^(th) day in elevated plus maze test (FIG. 7). Treatment with thecomposition showed remarkable reduction (p<0.001) in TL on retention day(15^(th) day), indicating significant improvement in learning andmemory. The results were comparable to standard Donepezil.

Determination of Acetylcholinesterase (AchE) Activity

The mice were decapitated; brains removed quickly and placed in ice-coldsaline. Frontal cortex, hippocampus and septum (and any other regions ofinterest) were quickly dissected out on a petri dish chilled on crushedice. The tissues were weighed and homogenized in 0.1M Phosphate buffer(pH 8). 0.4 ml aliquot of the homogenate was added to a cuvettecontaining 2.6 mL phosphate buffer (0.1M, pH 8) and 100 μL of DTNB. Thecontents of the cuvette were mixed thoroughly by bubbling air andabsorbance measured at 412 nm in a spectrophotometer. When absorbancereached a stable value, it was recorded as the basal reading. 20 μL ofsubstrate i.e., acetylthiocholine iodide was added and changes inabsorbance were recorded for a period of 10 minutes at intervals of 2minutes. Change in the absorbance per minute was determined.

The composition showed remarkable in brain cholinesterase activity inmice as compared to the respective control groups by using Ellman'skinetic colorimetric method (FIG. 8). The reduction in rate of enzymeactivity was highly significant (p<0.001) in 400 mg/kg b.w. ofcomposition-treated mice compared to the positive control (scopolamine).

Evaluation of Antioxidant Activity Superoxide Dismutase Activity (Singh,2014)

Estimation of superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in tissue was measuredin UV-VIS Spectrophotometer. 0.2 mL of the 10% tissue supernatantsamples was placed into each of the reference and test cuvette.Reference cuvette contained 1.5 mL of sodium carbonate buffer (100 mM,pH 10.2) and 1.3 mL of water, while the test cuvette contained 1.5 mL ofsodium carbonate buffer (100 mM, pH 10.2) and 1.1 ml of water. Thereaction was initiated by adding 0.2 mL of epinephrine (10 mM) in thetest cuvette, so that the final volume of reaction mixture would be 3.0mL. Both the reference and test cuvette were read simultaneously at 480nm wave length. The gradual increase of OD until attainment of maximumincrease of test cuvette against reference cuvette was recorded. Oneunit of SOD activity is the amount of SOD giving a 50% inhibition.

Catalase Activity (Claiborne, 1985)

A total of 0.1 mL of supernatant was added to a cuvette containing 1.9mL of 50 mM phosphate buffer (pH 7). The reaction was started by theaddition of 1 mL freshly prepared 30 mM H₂O₂. The rate of decompositionof H₂O₂ was measured spectrophotometrically at 240 nm. Catalase valueswere expressed as n moles H₂O₂ consumed/min/mg protein.

Lipid Peroxidation (Roger-Walker & Edward, 2005)

0.5 mL homogenate and 0.5 mL Tris-HCl (PH-7.4) was taken and incubatedat 37° C. for 2 hours; 1 mL 10% TCA (Trichloro acetic acid) was added,centrifuged at 1000×g for 10 min. To 1 mL supernatant, 1 mL of 0.67% TBA(Thiobarbituric acid) was added. The tubes were kept in a boiling waterbath for 10 min, cooled the solution and added 1 mL of distilled waterthen absorbance was measured at 532 nm using UV spectrophotometer.

Determination of Reduced Glutathione (GSH) (Singh, 2014)

Reduced glutathione (GSH) level of tissue was measured in UV-VISspectrophotometer. Total aliquot was 3 mL, containing 2 mL of 0.6 mMDTNB in 0.2 M Tris-hydrochloric acid buffer (pH 8.0), 0.1 mL of tissuesupernatant and 0.9 mL of 0.2 M Tris-hydrochloric acid buffer (pH 8.0).The reference cuvette contained 0.1 mL of 5% Trichloroacetic acid (TCA)instead of tissue sample and after 5 minute, absorbance was read at 412nm wavelength. Reduced glutathione content of tissue homogenate wasexpressed as μmole/gm wet tissue.

The animals treated with the composition (200 and 400 mg/kg b.w.) showedan improvement in their antioxidant defence system. The activity ofenzymes such as superoxide dismutase and catalase was reduced in thescopolamine treated mice (FIGS. 9 & 10). Composition treatment restoredthe level of SOD (p<0.01) and catalase activities (p<0.001) to thenormal levels significantly in mice brain. The protective effect exertedby the composition was comparable to standard Donepezil. The lipidperoxidation as indicated by brain melondialdehyde levels (MDA) wasincreased in mice treated with scopolamine (FIG. 11). Pre-treatment withthe composition exhibited protection against lipid peroxidationsignificantly (p<0.0001). The composition was also effective inincreasing the reduced glutathione levels (GSH) in brain. Glutathione isan extremely important cell protectant and essential cofactor for manyenzymes. There was a dose-dependent increase in the level of reduced GSHand the composition at 400 mg/kg b.w. significantly (p<0.001) restoredthe GSH when compared to scopolamine treated mice (FIG. 9).

Determination of Tau Hyperphosphorylation in Mice Brain

Brain homogenates from control and treated group of mice were estimatedfor total protein content using Bradford method. Further, the sampleswere used for the quantitative determination of phosphorylated Tauprotein (pTau) using Ms Tau [pS199] ELISA kit, Invitrogen. Theabsorbance emitted by the individual samples was detected usingmicroplate reader (Thermo Scientific Multiscan EX) at 450 nm. The datawere expressed as mean±SEM and analysed by one-way ANOVA followed byDunnett's multiple comparison test using GraphPad Prism Version 5.Differences were considered significant at p<0.05.

Alzheimer's disease is characterized by formation of amyloid plaques andneurofibrillary tangles; the latter composed of hyperphosphorylated andaggregated protein Tau. Tau hyperphosphorylation is one hallmark ofAlzheimer's disease pathology. Inhibition of Tau phosphorylation is apossible strategy to improve microtubule stabilization in Alzheimer'sdisease.

During this study in mice treated with the composition, there was anoticeable increase in Tau phosphorylation in scopolamine-treated mice(positive control) when compared to the normal group. However,administration of the composition effectively alleviated thehyperphosphorylation status of Tau protein and restored it to normallevels (FIG. 13). Composition treatment at 200 and 400 mg/kg b.w.significantly reduced Tau hyperphosphorylation compared to the positivecontrol (p<0.05).

Example 5

This example demonstrates the inventive composition's efficacy in theinhibition of acetylcholinesterase and beta secratase using in silicodocking studies.

Beta secratase and acetylcholinesterase are the major therapeutictargets of Alzheimer's pathology. These enzymes are associated with thebuilding up of amyloid beta (Aβ) followed by plaque formation and lossof cholinergic function in Alzheimer's brain.

Structure Based Virtual Screening (in Silico Studies)

In order to study the structure-activity relationship of caffeoylquinicacids in the composition with the enzyme active sites, molecular dockingstudies were performed.

AutoDock tools were utilized to generate grids, calculate dock score andevaluate the conformers of active principles from the composition boundin the active site of β-secratase and/or acetylcholinesterase as targetsfor Alzheimer's disease. Automated docking is a graphical userinterface. AutoDock 4.2 was employed to get docking and binding scores;which is implemented by Lamarckian genetic algorithm method. The ligandmolecules were designed and the structure was analysed usingACD/Chemsketch. The PRODRG server was used to minimize energy of drugcompounds and 3D coordinates were prepared. The protein structure files(PDB ID: 2QP8—β-secratase and 2WHQ—Acetylcholinesterase) were taken fromPDB and was edited by removing the hetero atoms using Python moleculeviewer. The grid map was centred at particular residues of the proteinand was generated with AutoGrid. As per genetic algorithm all thetorsions were allowed to rotate during docking. The Lamarckian geneticalgorithm and the pseudo-Solis and Wets methods were applied forminimization, using default parameters (Rodriguez and Infante, 2011).

The docking results revealed compounds with more favorable interactionswith the targets and also indicated that some of the compounds presentcertain structural motifs that could make them form extensive Van derWaals interactions and hydrogen bonding with targets (Table 4 & 5).After comparative docking analysis it was learned that3-O-Caffeoylquinic acid showed better inhibition of enzyme in comparisonto other compounds (binding energy of −7.38 kJ/mol). The moleculeinteracted with five hydrogen bonds with Ser71, Glu371, Ala218 and Arg368 residues of β-secratase (FIG. 14). The orientation of chlorogenicacids in the catalytic site of enzyme acetylcholinesterase indicatedprofound interaction in the form of protein-ligand hydrogen bondformation (FIG. 15). 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid showed better interactionwith acetylcholinesterase in comparison to other compounds, with bindingenergy of −7.12 kJmol⁻¹ and forming four hydrogen bonds with activepocket residues; Tyr341, Arg296 and Ser298.

TABLE 4 Molecular docking score of β-secratase with chlorogenic acids ofthe inventive composition. Thermodynamic parameters Binding LigandInhibitory Intermolecular Energy Efficiency Constant energy Molecule(KJ/mol) (KJ/mol) (μM) KJ/mol H-bonds Interactions 3-O- −7.38 −0.3 3.92−10.66 5 Ser71, Glu371, Caffeoylquinic Ala218, Arg368 acid 4-O- −6.54−0.26 15.99 −9.82 4 Lys70, Ser71, Caffeoylquinic Glu371, Glu400 acid5-O- −6.02 −0.24 38.51 −9.3 5 Ser71, Gly72, Caffeoylquinic Arg368,Glu371 acid 3,4-O- −6.48 −0.35 5.66 −8.08 3 Ser71, Lys70,Dicaffeoylquinic Ala218 acid 3,5-O- −6.18 −0.17 29.5 −11.25 5 Gly72,Glu371, Dicaffeoylquinic Arg368, Leu328, acid Ser71 4,5-O- −7.02 −0.2885.7 −9.5 4 Gly72, Ala 218, Dicaffeoylquinic Arg368 acid

TABLE 5 Molecular docking results of Acetylcholinesterase withchlorogenic acids of the inventive composition. Binding LigandInhibitory Intermolecular Energy Efficiency Constant energyPhytoconstituent (KJ/mol) (KJ/mol) (μM) KJ/mol H-bonds Interactions 3-O-−7.7 −0.31 2.27 −10.98 2 Trp286, Ser298 Caffeoylquinic acid 4-O- −7.09−0.28 6.38 −10.37 4 Gly342, Ser298 Caffeoylquinic Glu292, Tyr124 acid5-O- −7.12 −0.28 6.09 −10.4 4 Tyr341, Arg296 Caffeoylquinic acid Ser2983,4-O- −8.5 −0.23 585.35 −13.57 3 Tyr341, Val282 Dicaffeoylquinic Phe295acid 3,5-O- −7.02 −0.19 7.12 −12.09 3 His287, Leu289 DicaffeoylquinicSer298 acid 4,5-O- −5.85 −0.41 6.19 −11.28 2 Gly342, Ser298Dicaffeoylquinic acid

1-27. (canceled)
 28. A method for promoting cognitive function,comprising administering to a person in need thereof an effective amountof a composition comprising sunflower seed extract obtained from aqueousextraction of sunflower seeds, wherein said extract comprises a mixtureof chlorogenic acids consisting of 4.1±1.42 w/w % 3-Caffeoylquinic acid(3-CQA), 28±4.65 w/w % 5-Caffeoylquinic acid (5-CQA), 6.5±2.25 w/w %4-Caffeoylquinic acid (4-CQA), 0.84±0.26 w/w % 3,4-Dicaffeoylquinic acid(3,4-DiCQA), 1.23±0.34 w/w % 3,5-Dicaffeoylquinic acid (3,5-DiCQA), and1.85±0.42 w/w % 4,5-Dicaffeoylquinic acid (4,5-DiCQA).
 29. The method ofclaim 28, wherein said composition is administered to said person at adosage of about 200-400 mg per kilogram body weight.
 30. The method ofclaim 28, wherein said composition is administered to said personorally.
 31. The method of claim 28, wherein said composition has a DPPHIC50 value of about 38.49 μg/mL in vitro.
 32. The method of claim 28,wherein said composition has an acetylcholinesterase IC50 value of about43 μg/mL in vitro.
 33. The method of claim 28, wherein said compositionis in a form selected from the group consisting of a powder, liquid,pill, tablet, pellet, capsule, thin film, solution, spray, syrup,linctus, lozenge, pastille, chewing gum, paste, vapor, suspension,emulsion, ointment, cream, lotion, liniment, gel, drop, topical patch,buccal patch, bead, gummy, gel, sol, and injectable solution.
 34. Themethod of claim 28, wherein administering said composition inhibits Tauphosphorylation in said person.
 35. The method of claim 28, whereinadministering said composition inhibits the formation of amyloid plaquesin said person.
 36. The method of claim 28, wherein administering saidcomposition inhibits the formation of neurofibrillary tangles in saidperson.
 37. The method of claim 28, wherein administering saidcomposition inhibits the loss of GSH in said person.
 38. The method ofclaim 28, wherein administering said composition increases GSH in saidperson.
 39. The method of claim 28, wherein said composition furthercomprises an excipient.